What Are You Giving Up For Lent? – Survey of the Day

Today is Ash Wednesday which means it is exactly 40 days until Easter, and also a period of time referred to by Christians as Lent. The traditional purpose of Lent is the penitential preparation of the believer—through prayer, penance, repentance, almsgiving, and self-denial. The main change comes as many of the faithful commit to fasting or giving up certain types of luxury as a form of penitence.  Do you observe Lent? If so, what are you giving up? 

Although not observed by all practicing Christians, Lent has become more popular in Western culture over recent years. This event, along with its pious customs are observed by Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians, Anglicans and some Baptists. Lent is increasingly being observed by other denominations as well, even such groups that have historically ignored Lent, such as some Baptists and Mennonites.

According to the Synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, Jesus spent forty days fasting in the desert before the beginning of his public ministry, where he endured temptation by Satan. Because of the struggled endured, it became tradition to give up meat for Lent, and many still do. But, it is not required that a Christian give up meat, and many choose other luxuries to sacrifice for Lent today.